About 200 military members and their families gathered at Citizens Bank Park on Wednesday night for a Veterans Day event hosted by the Philadelphia Phillies and SEI. The occasion combined recognition, activities, and a chance for veterans and active-duty personnel from across the Delaware Valley to connect.
Army veteran Michele Farren, who served in Afghanistan and lives in Columbus, New Jersey, said the event “means everything to me.” She spoke about the comrades she lost in service and the importance of moments like this. “A lot of people I served with didn't get the chance to come back home, and I would give up anything for them to be. So, I appreciate when somebody says thank you or to do stuff like this,” Farren said.
Former Phillies players Mickey Morandini, Dickie Noles, and Milt Thompson attended and took time to show attendees how to swing a bat. Other guests explored the stadium, and families received Phillies merchandise and signed souvenirs. Morandini said the event was about “giving them the recognition they deserve. We're very honored and proud of all of our military people.”
The event also acknowledged some of the hardships veterans face after their service. David Miller from New Castle, Delaware, who attended, noted that “there's a lot of veterans who are facing some hard times right now, homelessness, mental illness, so to be honored here tonight. We're very thankful.”
Brian Jenkins, executive director of Chosen 300, highlighted that one-fifth of Philadelphia’s homeless population are veterans. His organization provided warm meals and clothing to those in need during the event. Jenkins said, “We want to celebrate those who fought for us but are also down on their luck.”
Despite the difficulties, many veterans expressed pride in their service. Matthew Cieslinski of Wilmington said, “For me, I did this out of, it's so hard to explain, for the good of my country, the betterment of my family, and you and everybody.”
Miller added, “We all give some, but some gave all. We're very proud to serve.”
The event brought together military families for an evening of appreciation and reflection, with the Phillies and SEI providing a platform to honour those who have worn the uniform as well as supporting those facing challenges after their service.
According to Yahoo Sports.
